Report Controversy Surrounds Thailand's 900 Million Baht Pavilion at World Expo 2025

[snoop1130]

File photo for reference only

 

The Thai Ministry of Public Health has come forward to defend its decision to spend 900 million baht on the Thailand Pavilion at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka. Despite receiving praise from some quarters, the expenditure has drawn criticism, prompting the ministry to address public concerns in a recent press conference led by Dr Opas Karnkawinpong, the ministry's permanent secretary.

 

Running from April 13 to October 13, the Thai Pavilion is part of the Expo's central theme, "Designing Future Society for Our Lives," focusing on health and well-being issues such as child vaccination, hygiene, nutrition, physical activity, and longevity. The Ministry of Public Health was appointed by the cabinet to oversee the project, emphasizing adherence to budget regulations and transparency in spending documentation, which is available for public review online.

 

Dr Opas highlighted the exhibition’s role in showcasing Thailand's health promotion strengths and supporting broader economic objectives. Plans include promoting Thai traditional massage through business matchmaking, expected to generate significant economic returns. With an average of 10,000 daily visitors, the Pavilion has been subject to evaluation by academics to determine its impact and value.

 

 

 

The exhibition has sparked mixed responses on social media platforms like TikTok and Facebook, with many praising its efforts and others voicing concerns. Notably, Unchalin Punnipa, president of TQM Alpha Plc, criticized the pavilion on Facebook, questioning if the substantial budget was prudently spent. He remarked that the pavilion resembled a school exhibition rather than a world-class showcase, a sentiment reportedly shared by his peers.

 

The Ministry has taken these criticisms as constructive feedback, reinforcing their commitment to promoting Thailand's health sector on a global stage. However, the debate reflects broader concerns about public spending efficacy and the balance between cultural promotion and financial accountability. As the Expo continues, the Pavilion's lasting impact on Thailand’s international reputation and economic opportunities remains under scrutiny.

 

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post

 

-- 2025-04-22

 

 

[blaze master]

7 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

Designing Future Society for Our Lives," focusing on health and well-being issues such as child vaccination, hygiene, nutrition, physical activity, and longevity.

 

Health and longevity eh ? How's that pm2.5 problem coming along? 

[bkk6060]

27 million USD?

Sounds totally insane.

[NoDisplayName]

11 minutes ago, bkk6060 said:

27 million USD?

Sounds totally insane.

 

It is for some poster boards and vinyl banners and plastic durian stickers from china.

[Lingba]

Controversy?  In Thailand?